K9 Handler

Constellis•Miami, VA

About The Position

The K9 Handler screens cargo in compliance with TSA rules and regulations, working with a trained detection dog. The role requires completing a minimum four-to-eight-week team training course and certification before mobilizing to the assigned location. The Handler maintains training records and required job-related certifications and security clearances, and is responsible for the care and maintenance of the assigned canine. The canine must be allowed to live inside the employee’s adequate, indoor, climate-controlled residence, which is subject to recurring inspections. Work may take place in busy training environments or in the field, with frequent interruptions and regular exposure to outdoor work and inclement weather, including heat, cold, and humidity. The position may also involve exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and vibration. Hours depend on the customer’s agreed schedule and may include nights, weekends, and holidays; schedules vary and travel may be required. The Handler may need to operate a company vehicle during on-site training.

Requirements

Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Have one to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational environment.
Be able to obtain a Known Traveler Number (KTN) within four to six weeks of employment.
Be able to obtain a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge within four to six weeks of employment.
Be able to obtain a Security Threat Assessment (STA) for an Airport Badge within four to six weeks of employment.
Have adequate transportation to transport the assigned canine and crate inside the vehicle to and from the assigned work location; the transportation must have operational climate control.
Be able to pass applicable contract testing and certifications for the program within four to six weeks of employment and maintain certification requirements.
Have a valid driver’s license and a clear driving record for the last three years.
Have a driver’s license compliant with REAL ID standards or possess a valid U.S. passport in addition to a valid driver’s license.
Have effective oral and written communication skills with all levels of the organization.
Have strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion.
Have problem-solving skills and an analytical thought process.
Be able to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
Be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 100 pounds.
Be able to stand for long periods in all weather conditions, with intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling.
Be able to constantly use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
Be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays according to varying customer schedules.
Be willing to travel if required.
Be willing to operate a company vehicle during on-site training.

Responsibilities

Participate in CCSP-related training to search cargo and identify threats.
Conduct authorized representative duties involving X-ray, physical searches, and trace detection as needed.
Perform Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog.
Maintain training records.
Care for and maintain the assigned canine, which must be housed inside the employee’s adequate, indoor, climate-controlled residence; the canine’s living area is subject to recurring inspections.
Maintain all job-related certifications and required security clearances.
Operate a company vehicle during on-site training when required.
Perform other duties as assigned.